What happens after 26 weeks of unemployment benefits in Washington ESD?

Unfortunately, Washington state doesn't have automatic extensions right now like during the pandemic. Once your regular UI benefits are exhausted after 26 weeks, that's typically it unless there's a federal extension program active. You might qualify for other programs though - have you looked into WorkFirst or Basic Food benefits through DSHS?

After 26 weeks of regular UI benefits in Washington, you might be eligible for Extended Benefits (EB) depending on the state's unemployment rate. Washington ESD will automatically check your eligibility and notify you if extensions are available. However, EB isn't always active - it depends on economic triggers.

Been there myself last year. Regular UI maxes out at 26 weeks and there's no state extension program currently. The only way you'd get more UI is if Congress passes a federal extension, which isn't happening right now. Start looking into other safety net programs ASAP.

Unfortunately, regular UI benefits in Washington do end after 26 weeks. There's no automatic extension - you have to exhaust your regular benefits first. Extended Benefits (EB) may be available depending on the state's unemployment rate, but it's not guaranteed and the criteria change frequently. You should check your Washington ESD account to see if you're eligible for any extensions.

Regular unemployment insurance (UI) in Washington state is limited to 26 weeks during a benefit year. After that, your regular benefits end unless there's an extended benefits program active, which depends on the state's unemployment rate. You should check your Washington ESD account for any notifications about extensions.

Thanks for explaining that. Is there somewhere specific I should look in my account to see if extensions are available?

I went through this exact situation last year. After my 26 weeks ended in August, I had to wait almost 3 weeks to find out if extended benefits were available. The uncertainty was horrible because you can't plan anything. Make sure you keep filing your weekly claims even if it shows $0 - they told me this keeps you in the system.

Washington ESD will send you a notice when you're getting close to benefit exhaustion, usually around week 24. The notice explains your options, which are pretty limited right now. No Extended Benefits (EB) program is active, and there's no federal extension. Your best bet is to diversify your support - apply for SNAP, look into local food banks, and check if you qualify for any workforce development programs through WorkSource.

i went through this last year and it was confusing as hell. washington esd didn't really explain things clearly and i spent weeks worried about my benefits stopping

Check the 'Claim Status' section and look for any messages about extended benefits. You can also call Washington ESD directly to ask about your specific situation.

ugh this is exactly what I'm dreading. I'm at week 23 right now and already stressing about it. The job market is still terrible and I don't know how I'm supposed to survive without any income

I understand the stress, but try to use these last few weeks to really ramp up your job search efforts. Document everything thoroughly in your job search log because you'll need that record if any extensions become available.

yeah I've been keeping track of everything. just worried it won't matter if there's no extension program running

Just went through this mess myself. The problem is Washington ESD doesn't always communicate clearly about what happens next. I spent hours on hold trying to get answers. If you're having trouble getting through to them, I recently discovered this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually gets you connected to a real person at Washington ESD. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me days of calling.

the 26 week thing is such BS... like what are we supposed to do just magically find jobs when there aren't any?? I'm dreading hitting that wall too

The key thing to understand is that Extended Benefits are tied to Washington's unemployment rate. When I was dealing with this issue, I couldn't get through to anyone at Washington ESD to get clear answers. I ended up using Claimyr to actually talk to an agent who explained the whole EB process. You can check them out at claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. It was honestly the only way I could get real information about my extension eligibility.

I went through this exact situation last year. When my 26 weeks ended, there was no federal extension program running at the time, so my benefits just stopped. Had to apply for other assistance programs like SNAP and look into local food banks. It was rough but I eventually found work in week 32.

ugh this system is so messed up!! 26 weeks isnt enough time to find good work especially in this job market. i've been applying everywhere and still nothing decent. its like they expect you to just disappear after 6 months

Important clarification - Washington state DOES have an Extended Benefits (EB) program, but it's only triggered when unemployment rates hit certain thresholds. Right now the state unemployment rate isn't high enough to trigger EB. During the pandemic we had federal programs like PEUC that extended benefits, but those ended in 2021.

Right now Washington isn't in an Extended Benefits period because our unemployment rate is too low to trigger the program. You'll get a letter from Washington ESD about 2-3 weeks before your regular benefits end explaining your options. Unfortunately, if there's no EB available, you'll need to look into other assistance programs.

Key things to know: 1) Keep filing weekly claims even after regular benefits end, 2) Continue your job search activities and log them, 3) Watch for notifications from Washington ESD about extended benefits, 4) Your benefit year doesn't reset until 52 weeks from when you first filed. If EB isn't available, you might need to look into other assistance programs or consider retraining options through WorkSource.

This is so stressful! I'm in week 24 and already freaking out about what happens next. The job market still feels terrible and I've been applying everywhere but nothing's working out.

That's terrifying. How did you manage financially during those 6 weeks without any unemployment income?

Been there, done that. The transition from regular UI to whatever comes next (if anything) is anxiety-inducing. Pro tip: start applying for other assistance now - food stamps, utility help, etc. Don't wait until your benefits actually end because there can be gaps in coverage.

I'm in the same boat - week 24 and getting worried. Has anyone had success with the retraining programs? I've heard WorkSource has some options but I don't know if they provide financial support while you're in training.

Just to clarify the current situation - Washington's unemployment rate would need to be above certain thresholds for Extended Benefits to kick in. The state rate needs to be at least 5% and 120% of the rate from the same period in the previous two years. Right now we're not meeting those triggers.

The whole system is ridiculous. 26 weeks isn't enough time to find decent work, especially if you're older or in a specialized field. Washington ESD acts like everyone can just flip burgers if they can't find their regular job.

Honestly it was really hard. Had to borrow money from family and use credit cards for essentials. Also signed up for gig work like DoorDash just to have some income coming in.

This whole system is designed to push people off benefits regardless of whether jobs exist. I hit my 26 weeks in November and there were no extended benefits available. Had to take a part-time job at 60% of my previous salary just to survive. Still looking for something better but at least I have some income.

To clarify some misinformation in this thread: Extended Benefits (EB) are triggered automatically when certain unemployment thresholds are met. Washington ESD doesn't have discretion over this - it's based on federal and state data. The current trigger requires the state's insured unemployment rate to be at least 120% of the average rate for the same period in the two previous years, AND above 5%.

Update: I tried calling Washington ESD to ask about my options but couldn't get through after 2 hours of trying. The automated system just keeps hanging up on me. How is anyone supposed to get information about what happens after exhaustion?

this is why the system is broken. people need help and cant even get through to ask questions. meanwhile politicians act like 26 weeks is plenty of time to find work

For those asking about other programs: SNAP (food stamps) through DSHS is probably your best immediate option. If you have kids, look into TANF as well. For healthcare, you might qualify for Apple Health (Medicaid). These aren't unemployment benefits but they can help bridge the gap while you continue job searching.

I went through this exact situation about 8 months ago. Week 25 came and I was panicking about my benefits ending. Used Claimyr to get through to a Washington ESD specialist who walked me through exactly what would happen. Turns out there was no EB available, but they helped me understand the timeline and what other resources I could access. Definitely recommend using their service if you need clarity on your specific situation.

This is why it's so important to start preparing before you hit week 26. Look into other assistance programs early and maybe start some gig work while you're still getting benefits.

I actually used Claimyr when I was trying to figure out my extended benefits situation. It's definitely worth it if you're getting nowhere with the regular phone system. They got me through to someone who explained exactly where I stood with EB eligibility and what to expect. Much better than the generic information on the website.

One thing to keep in mind - make sure you keep filing your weekly claims until you actually exhaust. I've seen people stop filing thinking they're close to the end, but then they lose benefits they were still entitled to.

The availability of extended benefits depends on Washington state's unemployment rate. If the rate is high enough, Extended Benefits (EB) can kick in for up to 13 additional weeks. However, this isn't guaranteed and depends on federal and state economic indicators. I'd recommend calling Washington ESD to get current information about whether any extensions are available when you're approaching your 26-week limit.

I've tried calling Washington ESD multiple times but can never get through. The phone system just keeps hanging up on me after being on hold forever.

Just want to mention again - if anyone is having trouble reaching Washington ESD about benefit exhaustion or other questions, claimyr.com really does work. I was skeptical at first but it saved me hours of calling. They have a demo video that explains it better than I can: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ

Make sure you keep filing your weekly claims right up until the end even if you know you're not getting extended benefits. I made the mistake of stopping early thinking it didn't matter and it caused issues with my final payments.

I had the same problem with calling Washington ESD until I found Claimyr. It's a service that helps you actually get through to speak with an agent. You can check it out at claimyr.com - they even have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Made a huge difference for me when I needed to get answers about my claim status.

Wait, so there's no automatic extension anymore? I thought there was always something after regular UI ended

No, extended benefits are not automatic. They depend on economic conditions and unemployment rates. During the pandemic there were federal programs like PEUC, but those ended in 2021.

One thing to consider is whether you have enough wages in your base period to start a new claim if your benefit year expires. Sometimes it's better to exhaust all extensions on your current claim rather than starting fresh with potentially lower benefits.

oh great, so we're basically on our own after 26 weeks unless the economy is really bad?

just hit my 26 weeks last month and got lucky - EB kicked in automatically. Got a letter from washington esd saying i qualified for 13 more weeks. didnt have to do anything special just kept filing my weekly claims like normal

the worst part is not knowing... like they should tell you by week 20 whether extended benefits will be available so you can plan

Also want to mention - if you're still eligible for job training programs, some allow you to defer job search requirements while in training. This can be helpful if you're having trouble finding work in your current field and need to retrain for something else.

Has anyone dealt with the work search requirements during extended benefits? I heard they might be different than regular UI requirements.

Update on the Claimyr thing - I ended up using them again when I had questions about my EB eligibility and they were able to get me connected to a specialist who knew exactly what was going on with the extended benefits program. Definitely recommend if you're stuck in phone tree hell with Washington ESD.

Important reminder: even if you don't qualify for EB, you may still be eligible for other programs. Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) if your job loss was due to trade/outsourcing, Disaster Unemployment Assistance in certain situations, or state-funded programs for specific industries. Don't assume you're out of options after regular UI ends.

Essentially yes. The Extended Benefits program only triggers when unemployment rates reach specific thresholds, and it's not currently active in Washington state.

Been collecting for 24 weeks now and this thread is making me nervous. Guess I better start preparing for the worst case scenario. At least I know about Claimyr now if I need to get through to someone at Washington ESD.

Final thought - document everything. Keep records of all your job search activities, any communications with Washington ESD, and your benefit payment history. If you end up needing to appeal anything or apply for other programs, having good records makes everything easier.

hang in there everyone... this whole situation is stressful enough without having to worry about benefits ending. hopefully the job market improves soon

One last tip - if you do end up having to file a new claim after your benefit year expires, be prepared for a potentially long adjudication process. They scrutinize new claims much more heavily than continued claims, especially if there are any gaps or issues with your work history.

thanks to whoever mentioned claimyr earlier... just used them and finally got some real answers about my situation. wish i had known about this service months ago

To wrap up with some concrete information: Extended Benefits provide up to 13 additional weeks (or 20 weeks during very high unemployment). The benefit amount remains the same as your regular UI. You must continue to meet all eligibility requirements including job search. If EB isn't available, your options become much more limited until you can file a new claim or qualify for other programs.

This whole system is so frustrating. 26 weeks isn't enough time in this job market, especially for specialized positions that take longer to find

I totally agree. It took me 8 months to find something in my field after being laid off. Those last few months without benefits were brutal.

exactly! and they expect us to take any minimum wage job available but then you can't afford to live and you're overqualified so they won't hire you anyway

Have you looked into retraining programs? WorkSource Washington sometimes has funding for people who've exhausted their benefits to learn new skills

I haven't really looked into that. Do you know how to find out what programs are available?

Check the WorkSource website or visit a local WorkSource office. They can tell you about training programs, apprenticeships, and sometimes there's funding available through WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act).

I did a welding program through WorkSource after my benefits ended. They paid for the training and I got a job right after finishing. It's worth looking into if you're open to changing fields.

Another thing to consider is whether you might be eligible to file a new claim if you've worked since your current benefit year started. Sometimes you can establish a new benefit year with higher wages.

I did work a temp job for about 6 weeks during this benefit year. Would that qualify me for a new claim?

Possibly, but you'd need to have earned enough wages to meet the minimum requirements for a new claim. It's definitely worth asking Washington ESD about when you're approaching your 26-week limit.

I'm in the same boat - week 24 now. Been trying to get through to Washington ESD for weeks to understand my options but their phone system is impossible

Like I mentioned earlier, try Claimyr if you need to actually speak with someone at Washington ESD. It's been a lifesaver for getting through their phone system when I had questions about my claim.

Is that legit? I'm desperate enough to try anything at this point

I used Claimyr too when I had an adjudication issue that needed resolving. It actually works - you get a callback when an agent is available instead of sitting on hold for hours.

Make sure you're keeping detailed records of all your job search activities even as you approach week 26. If any extension programs become available, you'll need to show you've been actively looking for work the whole time

Good point. I've been logging everything in the job search diary but wasn't sure if I needed to keep doing that after benefits end.

Definitely keep documenting your job search activities. If Extended Benefits become available later, you'll need to show continuous work search efforts.

has anyone had success appealing for additional benefits or getting some kind of hardship extension?

There's no hardship extension for regular unemployment benefits in Washington. The 26-week limit is set by federal law. Your only options are Extended Benefits (if available) or other assistance programs.

that's so messed up. people need more help than 26 weeks provides

I'm curious - does anyone know what the current unemployment rate needs to be for Extended Benefits to kick in?

Extended Benefits typically trigger when the state's unemployment rate is at least 6.5% and at least 110% of the rate for the same period in the two previous years. But the exact triggers can be complex and involve multiple factors.

Thanks for that info. Sounds like it's not something we can count on being available.

The whole thing is designed to force people back to work quickly, even if it's not a good fit. It's frustrating but that's the reality of the system

Yeah, and then if you take a job that doesn't work out, you might not be eligible for benefits again depending on why you left.

Exactly. It's like they want to push people into accepting anything just to get off the rolls.

At least in Washington we get the full 26 weeks. Some states have cut their programs to fewer weeks. Still not enough time in this economy though

That's true, I guess it could be worse. Still scary when you know that end date is coming up fast.

I totally understand the stress. Just try to use every resource available - WorkSource, food banks, temporary work, anything to bridge the gap if your benefits end.

Don't forget about Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) if your job loss was due to trade/imports. That can provide extended benefits and retraining

My layoff wasn't trade-related, but good to know that exists for people who qualify.

Yeah, it's pretty specific but worth mentioning since not everyone knows about it.

Bottom line - start preparing now for the possibility that your benefits will end at 26 weeks. Look into other assistance, ramp up your job search, maybe start some gig work. Don't wait until the last minute

You're absolutely right. I need to stop hoping for an extension and start planning for benefits to end. Thanks for the reality check.

That's good advice. I wish I had prepared better when I hit my 26 weeks. The transition was much harder than it needed to be.

If you do need to call Washington ESD for any final questions about your benefits or potential extensions, I'd recommend trying Claimyr again. The phone situation at ESD is still a nightmare, but at least with Claimyr you can get through to someone who can give you definitive answers about your specific situation.

Update from me - I applied for SNAP and Apple Health online yesterday. The process was actually pretty straightforward. Interview is scheduled for next week. Hoping to get approved before my UI runs out.

One more resource - contact your local WorkSource office directly. They often have information about local programs and resources that aren't widely advertised. Some areas have emergency assistance programs for people transitioning off UI.

Thanks everyone for all the advice. I'm feeling less panicked now that I know what my options are. Going to start applying for DSHS programs this week and contact WorkSource about training opportunities. Wish the system made this information easier to find upfront.

currently on week 23 and this thread is exactly what i needed to see. been putting off thinking about what happens next but guess i better start planning

The timing of when Extended Benefits get triggered is so weird. Like, the unemployment rate could be high but if it's not high enough compared to previous years, no extensions. Makes no sense from a practical standpoint.

If you do run out of regular benefits without an extension, definitely apply for other assistance right away. Don't wait thinking something might come through with unemployment. SNAP and other programs can take time to process.

This whole thread is giving me anxiety about my own claim. I'm only on week 8 but already worried about what happens if I can't find work by week 26.

I used Claimyr when I was in a similar situation and needed to understand my options after 26 weeks. The Washington ESD rep I spoke with was actually really helpful and explained the whole Extended Benefits process clearly. Worth the cost to get accurate information instead of stressing about unknowns.

Just remember that even if Extended Benefits aren't available now, the situation can change if Washington's unemployment rate goes up. They reassess the triggers periodically.

Bottom line - start preparing backup plans now. Whether that's other assistance programs, gig work, or whatever. Don't assume extensions will be available.

thanks everyone for all the info in this thread. feeling a lot more prepared for what might happen when my benefits run out

I'm in a similar situation at week 22 and this whole thread has been incredibly eye-opening. I had no idea that Extended Benefits weren't guaranteed or that they depended on unemployment rate triggers. The Washington ESD website really doesn't explain this clearly at all. I've been assuming there would be some kind of automatic extension, but now I realize I need to start preparing for my benefits to just end. Going to look into SNAP and other DSHS programs this week, and maybe try that Claimyr service if I need to get through to someone at Washington ESD. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - it's scary but at least now I know what I'm facing.